Bsun Pine vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and HMX Xinhai stand out as popular choices in their respective categories. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai is a linear switch crafted with a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Each switch offers a different typing experience, with the Pine being more accented and invigorating, while the Xinhai is described as bouncy and creamy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches using RGB lighting, as it allows for the illumination to shine through. Therefore, both switches offer similar sound qualities and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of bottom housing material, the Bsun Pine utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. Similarly, the HMX Xinhai also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering users a similar typing experience with its deep and full sound profile. Both switches demonstrate the impact of bottom housing material on the overall sound and feel of typing.
Overall, while the Bsun Pine and the HMX Xinhai may differ in their bottom housing material, both switches offer a comparable typing experience with their shared polycarbonate top housing. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings allows users to feel the impact of each material when typing, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate or the softer nylon, both housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch which has an actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Pine switch requires more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Pine switch also has a higher force of 65 grams compared to the Xinhai switch's 45 grams. This indicates that the Pine switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel when fully pressed down. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the Pine switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Xinhai switch is lighter in both aspects. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for consistent typing or gaming experiences, as the keypress feel will be comparable. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so users can expect similar results when using either the Bsun Pine tactile switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the BSUN Pine switch is best described as having a sharp and distinct click due to its sharp tactile bump and long pole stem that create a quick bottom-out. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination that creates a crisp, bright, and percussive resonance. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the BSUN Pine switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile experience with its pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and snappy response. This switch provides a distinct typing sensation with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt with each keypress. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch is known for its bouncy and creamy feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively bounce and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Both switches offer a unique and satisfying feel during typing, catering to different preferences based on the level of tactility and feedback desired.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each offer a unique typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch is characterized by a sharp and direct tactile bump with a distinct click sound, while the Xinhai switch provides a softer acoustic profile with a clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches promise a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will enjoy a satisfying and engaging time at their keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with sharp tactile feedback and quick action, the Pine switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, softer acoustics, and a more subtle yet precise performance, the Xinhai switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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